Philadelphia Alley, Charleston SC

Charleston, South Carolina has many small alleys running between streets. However, unlike where I grew up (NYC) these alleys also serve as streets and entrances to old houses still in use.

Philadelphia Alley, Charleston SC – click to enlarge

Philadelphia Alley (built in 1766) has several residences as well as linking 2 main streets. Much of cobblestones remain, however twice the area burned. Pretty common for cities to have major fires a few hundred years ago.

Philadelphia Alley, Charleston SC – click to enlarge

After the second fire the city of Philadelphia sent financial aid to Charleston to help rebuild along here. It was named in honor of the city that helped.

Above, one of the old homes sitting along the alley. In Charleston it is common for houses to have their main entrance off to the side of a building, not on the street. This allowed the old homes to have large porches or gardens yet still be a small space on an old cobblestone street. Now new homes around the country follow the ‘Charleston Style’ design.

Philadelphia Alley, Charleston SC – click to enlarge

Above, looking down the alley, a slight bend, and then to Queen Street in the French Quarter.